Events

How do you find space in a small apartment to fit one bed and three other people? Learn the answer from the inspiring story of Sarah E. Goode, who made history in 1885 as the first African American woman to receive a U.S. patent. Create your own scrapbook about pioneering inventors and go on a scavenger hunt to discover the fascinating stories behind everyday objects and the innovators who created them.

For over 15 years running, Akua Allrich has curated and performed a soul-stirring tribute presentation, honoring Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba. Akua Allrich pays homage to these two powerhouse artists, who have inspired her and millions of other jazz and music lovers around the globe. Allrich, whose own musical genesis comprises the blues, jazz, R&B, and pan-African music, features songs that Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba made their own. Join us in a musical experience based in freedom and self-expression, and particularly African expression. Allrich’s Nina Simone, Miriam Makeba tribute will leave you feeling both empowered and inspired!

Since the era of emancipation, black migration to the Washington, D.C. region has been fueled by the promise of economic opportunities, especially those opportunities afforded by employment with the federal government. For generations of African Americans, careers in the federal civil service have paved the way for professional advancement and economic security, expanding the ranks of the middle black class. However, this path has also been fraught with obstacles born of the nation’s dark history of segregation and racism. This exhibit explores this complicated history, focusing on how Black federal employment has shaped Prince George’s County.

This exhibition is curated by the M-NCPPC Black History Program. For additional information, email blackhistory@pgparks.com or call 240-264-3415.

To RSVP for the opening reception, email blackhistory@pgparks.com.

Enjoy a screening of a high-quality, filmed version of Anthony Davis’s groundbreaking and influential opera, X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X, as presented by The Metropolitan Opera. Director Robert O’Hara oversees a potent new staging that imagines Malcolm as an Everyman whose story transcends time and space. An exceptional cast of breakout artists and young Met stars enliven the operatic retelling of the civil rights leader’s life. “Not just a thought-provoking show, it is also highly entertaining.” -MSNBC. Run Time: 3h 20m (3 acts with two 15-minute intermissions). Recommended for ages 18 & up; contains strong language. This screening is free, however, reservations are strongly recommended due to limited seating.

Join us for “A Tribute to the Music of the Isley Brothers.” Get ready for an unforgettable night as we pay homage to The Isley Brothers with hits like “Fight the Power,” “Choosey Lover,” “Footsteps in the Dark,” “Voyage to Atlantis,” and more. With hit after hit, the band will keep the music going all night long, so don’t miss out on the energy and powerful voices as we pay tribute to The Isley Brothers.

Renowned saxophonist Kevin Levi is set to unveil his debut solo project, “ATONE,” a vibrant fusion of hip hop, R&B, Neo-soul, and ballads infused with his signature melodic flair. “ATONE” ventures into uncharted creative territory, showcasing Levi’s boundless artistry and collaborative spirit. Each original composition reflects his personal inspiration and meticulous craftsmanship, highlighted by the talents of collaborator Leroy “Scooter” Taylor. With a storied history performing alongside luminaries like Wynton Marsalis and Marcus Miller, Kevin’s music transcends boundaries, inviting listeners to tap into their imagination and create their own narratives through his soul-stirring saxophone melodies.

Dr. James Karmel will give an overview of African American Civil Rights in Maryland from the Reconstruction Era through the mid-20th Century. He is a Professor of History at Harford Community College, where he also serves as Director of the Harford Civil Rights Project. He is the recipient of a major National Endowment for the Humanities program grant, and the primary developer of the Harford Civil Rights Project’s digital exhibition.

Harmony Hall Arts Center presents “AILEY”—a captivating film celebrating Alvin Ailey, a revolutionary dance icon. Director Jamila Wignot skillfully brings Ailey’s enduring legacy to life, revealing the profound impact of his choreography on the Black American experience. Through intimate interviews and evocative archival footage, “AILEY” captures the brilliance of this visionary artist who created not just dance, but a community where emotions run deep and the human spirit soars. Experience the beauty and power of Alvin Ailey’s work.

The Sound of DC: A Visual History is a four-part exhibition series focused on the rich history of the music scene in the DMV area.

The newest chapter of this series focuses on Go-Go, a style of funk that originated in D.C. in the 1970s; leading into a look at how fashion factored into these unique DC music scenes; and concluding with photography from behind-the-scenes at prominent local music venues. Each section will collaborate with local stakeholders and exhibit artifacts such as posters, flyers, zines, photographs, and audio recordings.

Enjoy this concert version of the Broadway hit “Showboat” by composer Jerome Kern and lyrics by Rogers and Hammerstein, based on the ASALH 2025 theme of Blacks and Labor. Featuring Grammy award winning Black classical singers, chorus, and dancers, the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts (CAAPA) production highlights hit musical selections including “Ol’ Man River” and “Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man.” Also highlighted as a part of the show is CAAPA’s version of the famous “Cakewalk”…so remember to bring your own hat, bring your fans, and be a part of the fun!

This event runs from February 20 through April 28, public hours (Thurs – Mon, 10 am – 4 pm); Closed April 20

Quilters were challenged to interpret Tina Turner’s songs, movies, or lifestyle, using any quilting style or technique– traditional, contemporary, improvisational, modern or fiber art. This exhibition will be featured for an extended period for both Black and Women’s History Months and for the Montpelier Festival of Herbs, Tea, and the Arts on the last Saturday of April.

February 2025:
* Thu Feb 20: 10am-4pm
* Fri Feb 21: 10am-4pm
* Sat Feb 22: 10am-4pm
* Sun Feb 23: 10am-4pm
* Mon Feb 24: 10am-4pm
* Thu Feb 27: 10am-4pm
* Fri Feb 28: 10am-4pm

March 2025:
* Sat Mar 1: 10am-4pm
* Sun Mar 2: 10am-4pm
* Mon Mar 3: 10am-4pm
* Thu Mar 6: 10am-4pm
* Fri Mar 7: 10am-4pm
* Sat Mar 8: 10am-4pm
* Sun Mar 9: 10am-4pm
* Mon Mar 10: 10am-4pm
* Thu Mar 13: 10am-4pm
* Fri Mar 14: 10am-4pm
* Sat Mar 15: 10am-4pm
* Sun Mar 16: 10am-4pm
* Mon Mar 17: 10am-4pm
* Thu Mar 20: 10am-4pm
* Fri Mar 21: 10am-4pm
* Sat Mar 22: 10am-4pm
* Sun Mar 23: 10am-4pm
* Mon Mar 24: 10am-4pm
* Thu Mar 27: 10am-4pm
* Fri Mar 28: 10am-4pm
* Sat Mar 29: 10am-4pm
* Sun Mar 30: 10am-4pm
* Mon Mar 31: 10am-4pm

April 2025:
* Thu Apr 3: 10am-4pm
* Fri Apr 4: 10am-4pm
* Sat Apr 5: 10am-4pm
* Sun Apr 6: 10am-4pm
* Mon Apr 7: 10am-4pm
* Thu Apr 10: 10am-4pm
* Fri Apr 11: 10am-4pm
* Sat Apr 12: 10am-4pm
* Sun Apr 13: 10am-4pm
* Mon Apr 14: 10am-4pm
* Thu Apr 17: 10am-4pm
* Fri Apr 18: 10am-4pm
* Sat Apr 19: 10am-4pm
* Sun Apr 21: 10am-4pm
* Mon Apr 22: 10am-4pm
* Thu Apr 24: 10am-4pm
* Fri Apr 25: 10am-4pm
* Sat Apr 26: 10am-4pm
* Sun Apr 27: 10am-4pm
* Mon Apr 28: 10am-4pm

Closed: April 20, 2025

Gladys Knight is a legendary singer known for her powerful vocals and captivating performances. Her music has touched the hearts of millions and has inspired countless artists across generations. This tribute to Gladys Knight highlights her incredible talent, her contributions to music, and her impact on the industry. Join us as we celebrate her iconic songs, her soulful voice, and her lasting influence on the world of music. Gladys Knight is a true icon, and this tribute honors her enduring legacy.